I've been getting tons of inquiries about my DIY Video Content and Discoverability workshops here in Edmonton, so I thought I'd pop in and answer some FAQs, as well as tell y'all a little bit more about what goes on at the workshops - and why you need to attend one.

So, what actually happens at these workshops?

In a three-hour workshop, we'll tackle a lot, including:

Choosing the right camera (to suit your budget and needs)

Lighting and audio (how to make them better on a budget)

Composition and editing (dos and don'ts and quick tips from a professional point of view)

Social media strategy for sharing video (spoiler alert: you can't share it once and walk away)

Tricks for improving discoverability (how do you actually get your video seen?)

Plus you get to ask me whatever you want in the Q&A at the end.

Now, some of the most frequently asked questions I've gotten about the workshops:

How much experience do I need to attend a workshop?

You don't need to have any experience with making video to come to this workshop! All you need is a willingness to learn and an interest in developing video content. Chances are you have a smart phone - with a couple small additions/pieces of equipment, you'll be ready to start making video. So please don't feel like you need to have gear and/or experience to sign up.

Remember: this is a workshop on DIY video content. This is simple video content anyone can create. We'll also talk about when you need to hire a professional. It takes years of experience to become a professional.

Will you teach me how to use my camera?

I can definitely teach you how to use a camera...but not in a three-hour workshop. What I will teach you is the basics of composition, and how to choose a camera that's right for you (which may mean using anything from a smart phone to a DSLR). If you'd like to hire me for some one-on-one training to get more comfortable with your camera, contact me directly so we can chat about schedule and pricing.

Will you teach me how to edit?

Again, folks, editing isn't something you can learn in a three-hour workshop. I mean, yes, I could probably walk you through the basics of editing software in three hours, but...

Everyone uses different editing software, so I'd have to use different vocabulary and instructions for each person

The entire workshop would have to be editing, and I want to give you a more holistic approach to your video content

Also, please remember: shooting and editing aren't things you learn overnight. At the risk of sounding purposefully vague, you may be able to learn how to do them, but it takes a long time to really do them, to find your eye, your style, your voice, etc.

Or, as photographer Annie Leibovitz puts it (much more eloquently):

"You can have the best equipment and it doesn't help if you can't see. It takes years to understand how to see."

What we will talk about is basic editing tips, things to avoid, editing tricks that will keep your audience happy, and more.

Are you gonna talk about Facebook Live?

You bet! We'll be talking about all different types of video, from edited pieces to Instagram stories and Facebook Live.

Are you gonna tell me to spend a ton of money on gear?

No. Again, this is about DIY video, not producing feature films. I'm going to tell you about some equipment that will up your game significantly, and show you a bunch of options at different price ranges to attain said equipment.

When is the next workshop? I missed the first one and I REALLY want to attend!

First of all, the next workshop will be announced soon.

But you have another option, too! Have a group of fellow business owners/social media managers/content developers who are interested in making better video? Gather them and book a private training. I have a six person minimum. Once you've got a group of six or more, you can schedule me for a date and location that work best for you.

Happy New Year, All!

To be honest, it's really hard to believe we're already almost a full week into 2018. The last year has flown by - as they always do, I suppose.

I want to start out by saying thank you to all of my 2017 clients. I had the opportunity to work on such an amazing variety of projects, from teaming up with Calgary-based company KNG Capital for Tiger Cage...

...to flying out to Vancouver for a week to be a production assistant on upcoming Netflix film, Game Over, Man.

So, what's in store for 2018?

You may have noticed that I relaunched my website - and business - on January 1st. If you take a look through my services offered, you'll notice some significant changes, namely that I have streamlined my business and focused in on filmmaking, photography, and storytelling education.

My focus for 2018 is completely set on helping others share their story with the world, whether that's through creating engaging, effective video content, professional story consulting, or training and workshops.

What is Story Consulting?

You've got an amazing business/brand/organization/event, but what's the best way to actually reach your audience and share it with them?

In a story consulting session, we'll sit down and talk about your business, your audience, and the best way to reach them. It's 2018 and the amount of channels and platforms available to businesses is overwhelming. Do you need to be on Instagram? Would a podcast increase your sales? Or should you focus on a YouTube channel?

I'll help you figure it out, form a plan, and connect you with the people who can make it happen.

Training & Workshops

This is something I've been asked for a lot over the last two years, and I'm making it happen in 2018!

Film, Film, and More Film

And of course, I have a lot of very exciting film projects coming up this year, so stay tuned to hear more about those - and to watch them!

That's all for today, folks! I am beyond grateful to be able to do what I love every single day, and I am genuinely beside myself with excitement and anticipation for this year.

If you love this, do me a favour and click 'Share' below to help me spread the word. And as always, if you're ready to work together or you have any questions about anything mentioned above, you know where to find me!